Words: Libby Taylor

3 stars

Play On is a multi-layered piece weaving Shakespeare and fractious relationships into an escape room setting to create an intriguing plot. The playwright, Erin Boulter, incorporates Shakespearean text and music, so that it not only naturally flows within the piece, but enhances the characterisation of and our emotional connection with
the two siblings that are focused upon. The escape room is a clever idea for exploring familial love and rivalry; by starting the show with the characters facing this shared challenge, we are quickly introduced to the natural order of things and where the tension lies between the two.

Nora Went and Boulter play the sibling relationship well through bringing an authentic familiarity and competitiveness. The depth of their bond is particularly believable in moments of sorrow and corrected misunderstandings – it really feels as if we are watching years of assumptions being proven wrong right before our eyes.

Outside of these moments of connection, more contrast between the two could have been played with. Through leaning into different characteristics, moments, and moods, there would have been more life and variation. Went and Boulter were bold in their roles when briefly performing behind the curtain and it would have been fantastic to see this playful energy onstage. Likewise, it felt a missed opportunity that they didn’t use the battle-based props at their disposal to build the comedy and tension. This was a preview, however, and confidence will build throughout their run, so keep an eye out for this inspired show.

Play On
The Annexe @ Paradise in the Vault
13:20
11 – 24 Aug (Not 17)